In addition to being rich in dietary fiber, which helps us stay full, leeks also have diuretic properties that allow us to combat fluid retention.
Leeks are a delicious type of vegetable that belongs to the genus Allium. They are from a family of onions, chives, and garlic. It is a plant native to Europe and also to Western Asia that cultivated for its leaves, bulbs, and edible flowers.
Their flavor, slightly sweet characterizes them, and because they have tremendous versatility when it comes to being cooked. For example, they prepared sautéed with other vegetables, steamed, or in broths. Also, it is a food that contains useful nutrients, and that can provide benefits to the body.
Next, we develop the main characteristics and properties of the leek and its implication in the human body are.
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Table of Contents
Nutritional Properties of Leeks
- Leeks are one of the best sources of dietary fiber, which helps satiate the body.
- They are rich in vitamin B9 or folic acid. This helps the body to generate new cells and keeps the blood healthy to oxygenate the body. It is also essential for women’s health.
- They provide calcium. Therefore, it helps strengthen bones and teeth and ensures that muscles and nerves function properly.
- They are an essential source of potassium, which balances the body’s water and pH levels.
- They provide vitamin C, so they help repair body tissues.
Antibacterial Potential
Some believe that leek has antibacterial properties, although not as noticeable as those of other foods, such as garlic. The basis for this belief lies in the fact that leeks contain a compound called alliinase, and when cut, it reacts to form allicin.
In a 2004 study in the British Journal of Biomedical Science, the antibacterial efficacy of allicin successfully tested against Staphylococcus aureus. This bacterium can cause skin and mucous infections and can affect the gastrointestinal tract.
The allicin inactivated by heat, so if you want to get all the benefits of the leek, the cut should keep for about 10 minutes before cooking it. You could also consume it raw.
Diuretic Benefits of Leeks
Fluid retention or edema is the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces between cells, most notably in the feet, ankles, fingers, or face. Inflammation is usually a symptom of an underlying disease or condition, such as kidney or liver disease, or exposure to heat. Also, Leeks are suitable to support medical treatment due to their diuretic properties.
Leeks Strengthen Immune Function
Leeks are a rich source of vitamin A, which is essential for our immune system. In 100 grams of leeks, we receive 33% of the recommended daily dose. Keeps the lining of the mucosa of the nose, throat, urinary tract, and digestive tract healthy and intact. It also helps to develop and activate white blood cells.
Summarizing
Leeks are vegetables belonging to the same family as onions and garlic (Allium). Although they are not as popular as the latter, their nutritional properties are significant for the diet. In general, the consumption of leeks provides vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that promote both cardiovascular health and kidney, liver, and other important system health. Do you already consume them?
